Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Start with a list of everything you plan to carry. Write down each item, from the largest furniture piece to the box of odds and ends, and note the dimensions of anything unusually long, wide or tall. Count your boxes, bags and loose items, and mark which belong to which room or job if that helps you stay organised. This inventory gives the team something concrete to work from when matching the job to a vehicle, since they can only suggest the right option if they know what is going in it. If items are destined for someone else, add that person's contact details. Keep the list handy when you ask for a quote, and invite any questions about the van groups on offer.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
How long will packing actually take? Before finalising your hire dates, think honestly about the hours needed to get everything ready, and build a buffer into your schedule in case the job runs longer than expected. Note your preferred start time and the point at which you want to be finished, and consider whether an extra day of hire might be worth asking about. If helpers are joining, record when each person is available and how their timings fit your window. Where a recipient is waiting at the other end, keep their number so you can update them if the day slips. Questions about dates, access arrangements and vehicle availability can all be raised when you contact the team.
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Things to check before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.